"Germany Wants War...An Effective Declaration" World War Even Invoked—What's Happening?

Germany Points to Russia as Culprit Behind 'Explosive Drone' Attack

Russian Foreign Minister Condemns Germany: "An Effective Declaration of War Against Us"

Tensions between Germany and Russia have reached a boiling point after Russia was identified as the perpetrator behind a drone incident involving explosives at Leipzig/Halle Airport, a key logistics hub in eastern Germany, last month. In response to the findings, the German government has taken strong retaliatory measures, including the closure of the Russian consulate general and cultural center. Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister, strongly objected, stating, "Germany wants war again."

The bomb disposal unit deployed at Leipzig Airport in Germany last month. Photo by Yonhap News

Germany Points to Russia as Mastermind Behind Airport Bomb Drone Incident, Retaliates

According to AFP on the 6th (local time), the incident began with a covert operation that took place on August 4th in a secure area of Leipzig/Halle Airport. Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the airport has served as a critical hub for Western military assistance and as the main logistics center for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). At the time, four large An-124 transport planes belonging to Antonov Airlines of Ukraine were present when a drone loaded with explosives appeared nearby. CCTV footage from the airport captured the drone striking the wing portion of one of the transports, and a DHL cargo plane attempting to land collided with an unidentified flying object, damaging its tail wing. Authorities reported recovering at least three drones, explosives, a control antenna, and electronic components near the scene.

After more than a month of its own investigation and intelligence analysis, the German government officially concluded on September 1st that Russia was behind the incident. German Foreign Minister Johann Badefuhl pointed out, "The design and components of the drones, explosives, and detonating systems used in this operation match those found in other Russian hybrid operations and in the Ukraine war." In quick succession, Germany summoned the Russian ambassador, closed the Russian consulate general in Bonn, and revoked the operational agreement for the Russian cultural center 'Russian House' in Berlin. German authorities also suspect possible Russian involvement in a package fire that occurred at an airport logistics company earlier in 2024.

Russian Foreign Minister Criticizes “Effectively a Declaration of War”…Putin Blames “Drop in Political Support in Germany”

The Russian government immediately denounced the findings, calling them a "hastily fabricated provocation." In response, Russia closed German cultural institutions within its own borders, and senior leaders raised the tone of criticism. Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister, in a media interview, stated, "They found a drone, claimed it was Russian, but nobody was able to verify this," further claiming, "In essence, this is the start of a real war. The situation reminds me of the days leading up to World War II. They want war again."

Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister. Photo by TASS Yonhap News Agency

Lavrov also commented on the security policies of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, asserting, "Actions are being taken to turn Germany into Europe's military powerhouse again," adding, "In effect, this is equivalent to declaring war on us." He further noted, "The Russian consulate was expelled from Bonn and the agreement has been revoked. I remember Germany closing diplomatic missions before the start of World War II."

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a press conference in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, also claimed that the evidence presented by Germany was "fabricated and planted," asserting, "Considering their declining approval ratings and the approaching elections, I believe the key issue for Germany’s ruling elite is their own political future," implying a political conspiracy.

Germany Deploys Anti-Drone Units and Launches ‘Cyber Dome’ Initiative

With the threat of Russian hybrid operations becoming a reality, the German government has taken swift steps to overhaul its national security system to protect key facilities. The German Ministry of the Interior has decided to deploy dedicated anti-drone task forces in major cities to protect the airspace over key national infrastructure such as airports, train stations, and government buildings. In addition, Germany will simultaneously pursue the establishment of a nationwide integrated detection and interception system for hacking and cyberterrorism targeting public agencies and critical enterprises, known as the 'Cyber Dome.'

Antonov cargo plane at Leipzig Airport. Photo by EPA Yonhap News

Germany's determined response is seen as a commitment not to tolerate any acts of destruction against its national infrastructure. As hybrid attacks—combining non-military and armed operations—become more visible, the government is moving beyond mere diplomatic protests to a phase of substantially strengthening its defenses.

EU and NATO: "Russian Attack Is Clear"…Resolve for Unity

The Western community has closed ranks in response to Germany's robust measures. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised the clarity of the evidence presented by Germany on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "NATO will continue to enhance its ability to defend all allies against any threat," and declaring, "Russia's attempts to undermine our unity and our resolve to support Ukraine will be futile and fail."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also made it official that the European Union would prepare additional sanctions, stressing, "There will be no overlooking of hybrid attacks without clear responses."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.